STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about a lawsuit over lab tests for meds, a Bristol myeloma drug, and more

And so, another working week will soon come to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda is still taking shape, but we plan on promenading with the official mascots, catching up on our reading, and hanging with a visiting short person. We also hope to have time for our weekly listening party, where the rotation will likely include this, this, this, this and this. And what about you? As noted previously, this is a marvelous time to enjoy the great outdoors. City streets beckon. And beaches and woodsy trails are closer than you think. You could also curl up with a good book if the weather fails to cooperate, tidy around your castle, or get a head start on back-to-school shopping — the economy could always use a boost. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon. … The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved an oral treatment for advanced multiple myeloma made by Bristol Myers Squibb, marking the debut of a new class of medicine for the blood cancer and the first drug cleared by U.S. regulators using a more sensitive measure of remission, STAT explains. The drug, which will be sold under the brand name Zenbexus, is part of a Bristol research effort to develop a new and more potent class of blood cancer drugs called CELMoDs that work by redirecting a cell’s natural machinery to eliminate cancer-causing proteins. A U.S. appeals court ruled that a lower-court judge ‌erred in dismissing a $6.7 billion lawsuit accusing Bristol Myers Squibb of cheating former Celgene shareholders by delaying federal approval for three drugs, Reuters writes. In a 3-0 decision, the appeals court decided UMB Bank was entitled to represent Celgene shareholders as a trustee despite ​an error in how it was appointed. The case arose from Bristol Myers’ purchase of Celgene for $80.3 billion in 2019. Celgene shareholders who ​held “contingent value rights” were entitled to an extra $9 per share in cash if Bristol Myers won timely ​U.S. regulatory approvals for three drugs. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe